The Ohio State Buckeyes might produce another NFL head coach if betting odds are correct. Hours after the New Orleans Saints fired Dennis Allen, Bookies.com produced theoretical betting odds about the franchise's next head coach. Cleveland Browns defensive assistant Mike Vrabel landed as one of the top-six candidates.

The former Buckeyes linebacker and defensive coach was a successful head coach with the Tennessee Titans. Vrabel won 54 of 99 games over six seasons. The 49-year-old made it to the playoffs three times, winning the AFC top seed in 2021 and winning NFL Coach of the Year. 

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The other hypothetical odds included Bills offensive coordinator (OC) Joe Brady, Packers OC Adam Stenavich, former Saints QB Drew Brees, Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, and Texans OC Bobby Slowik.

Brees and McCarthy seem especially unlikely, but Brady, Stenavich, and Slowik would surely be interested in taking over a team poised to take a quarterback this coming spring.

Vrabel had a remarkable football career that began at Ohio State University, where he excelled as a linebacker and defensive end. Playing for the Buckeyes from 1993 to 1996, he became one of the most formidable defenders in college football of his time. 

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Renowned for his relentless determination and athleticism, Vrabel set Ohio State records for career sacks (36) and tackles for loss (66), benchmarks that future players would aim to surpass. His ability to disrupt offensive plays made him a formidable opponent for quarterbacks, earning him All-American accolades during his junior and senior years.

Vrabel’s influence at Ohio State went beyond just his statistics. His fierce playing style embodied the grit and passion that the program stands for, quickly making him a crowd favorite. After college, he enjoyed a successful 14-year NFL career, primarily with the Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots, and Kansas City Chiefs, winning three Super Bowl championships with the Patriots and showcasing his versatility by catching several touchdown passes as well.

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After retiring, Vrabel returned to Ohio State as a coach in 2011, starting as the linebackers coach under head coach Luke Fickell. His playing experience translated effectively into coaching, as he emphasized discipline, technique, and toughness. 

Vrabel swiftly gained respect as a capable coach, helping to transform Ohio State's defense into a powerful unit. In 2012, Urban Meyer elevated him to defensive line coach, where he continued to develop elite talent while fostering a professional mindset among his players.

Vrabel’s contributions to Ohio State, both on the field and as a coach, laid a solid groundwork for his future success as an NFL head coach.